Making memories: A mother and her three sons enjoy a fun day of catfishing on the lake.
With some night crawlers for bait and a bit of teamwork, they’ve landed a nice catch,
turning their fishing trip into an unforgettable adventure. (Courtesy of Rippin Lips Fishing)
Catfishing Fun
By Keith “Catfish” Sutton
How to engage kids with catfish-related activities they’ll never forget
In the world of catfish angling, there’s a unique joy that comes from sharing the experience with the younger generation. While encouraging kids to enjoy the outdoors and take a break from screens is valuable, there’s a whole realm of extraordinary activities that can transform a regular fishing trip into an unforgettable adventure. Here are some creative and engaging ways to introduce kids to the wonders of catfishing.
1. Catfish Scavenger Hunt
Turn your fishing outing into a scavenger hunt. Create a list of items for kids to find around the fishing site. Include different types of bait, various items of fishing gear or even specific plants and animals native to the area. Add some catfish-related tasks, like identifying different species or learning how to set up a catfish rig. This activity not only makes the trip more exciting but also educates children about the ecosystem around them.
2. DIY Catfish Bait Workshop
Before heading out, organize a DIY bait workshop. Gather ingredients for making homemade catfish bait, such as chicken liver, cheese, hot dogs, Kool-Aid and garlic. Let the kids mix and match to create their own “secret” bait recipes. Not only does this teach them about what attracts catfish, it also gives them a sense of pride and ownership when their concoction yields a catch.
3. Storytime with a Twist
Combine storytelling with angling lore. Share fascinating tales about legendary catfish and local fishing myths while waiting for a bite. Encourage kids to invent their own stories about their fishing adventures, complete with imaginary catfish characters. This activity stimulates creativity and keeps young anglers engaged, even during the quieter moments.
4. Catfish Photography Contest
Hand over a camera or a smartphone and challenge kids to capture the best catfish-related photos. Categories can include the biggest splash, the most interesting bait setup or the best action shot of a fish being reeled in. This not only hones their photography skills but also encourages them to observe and appreciate the details of their surroundings.
5. Junior Angler Journal
Provide kids with a spiral notebook they can use as a journal to document their fishing experiences. Encourage them to record the date, weather conditions, types of bait used and the catfish they catch. They can also draw pictures or paste in photos from the fishing site. This activity turns each fishing trip into a cherished memory and a learning opportunity, as they can track patterns and improve their angling skills over time.
6. Interactive Catfish Biology
Bring a bit of science to your fishing trip by exploring catfish biology. Use a small net to catch and release smaller fish, teaching kids about different species and their habitats. Discuss the anatomy of catfish and why certain bait and techniques work better for catching them. Hands-on learning like this can spark a lifelong interest in freshwater biology and conservation.
7. Night Fishing Adventure
For an added thrill, take kids on a night-fishing adventure. Catfish are often more active at night, and the experience of fishing under the stars can be magical. Equip them with glow sticks, headlamps and a sense of adventure. This activity combines the excitement of night exploration with the joy of angling, creating a memorable experience that kids will talk about for years.
By incorporating these unconventional activities, you can transform a simple fishing trip into a multifaceted adventure. Engaging kids in these creative ways not only fosters a love for catfish angling but also encourages them to appreciate nature, learn new skills and create lasting memories.
(CatfishNOW editor Keith “Catfish” Sutton and his wife Theresa have raised six sons, all of whom share a deep love for fishing—catfishing in particular.)
